Identity Theft Prevention

Online Banking Security | Identity Theft Prevention | Credit Reports | Credit Card & Bank Account Security | Telephone & Mail Precautions

Silver Falls Bank works continuously to make sure your account and information are safe. By understanding exactly what identity theft is, how it happens, and how it affects you, you will be better able to prevent and, if necessary resolve identity theft. Here are some general precautions that you can take to help reduce your risk of being a victim of ID theft.

What is identity theft?

Identity theft occurs when someone illegally obtains your personal information — such as your Social Security number, bank account number, or other identification — and uses it repeatedly to open new accounts or initiate transactions in your name. For example, someone might do a combination of the following: open new credit cards, open new bank accounts, forge checks, and even apply for loans using your name and personal information. This can cause financial loss and damage your credit, which can lead to a lengthy resolution process.

Keep in mind however, that even if you think your security has been compromised, it does not automatically mean that you are a victim of identity theft. It might be an incorrect entry or an isolated incident of theft from your Silver Falls Bank account that is quickly resolved by contacting us.

How can I help protect myself?

• Do not open or respond to email messages requesting personal information. Silver Falls Bank will never send email messages containing attachments, or require customers to send personal information via email or pop-up windows.
• Carry only necessary identification. In particular, do not carry your Social Security card.
• When a Social Security number is requested to sign up for a service, confirm that it is actually needed rather than some other identifier.
• Make photocopies of all the information you carry daily and store them in a secure location like a safety deposit box.
• Shred financial or personal documents before discarding. Most fraud and identity theft incidences happen as a result of mail and garbage theft.
• Pay bills online with Silver Falls Bank Online Bill Pay. The fewer personal documents sent through the mail, the less chance there is for possible fraud.
• Always put outgoing mail in a U.S. Postal Service mailbox, which is more secure than your home mailbox.
• Collect your mail promptly each day.